s1n and innocent spoke after their teams’ exhibition match at the IEM Cologne Major 2026

s1n: We really wanted to win this match and hear the crowd cheering us on; I hope we managed to put on a good show for the fans. It’s been quite a while since I last played for my national team; today was only my second time, and of course, it feels special—even though it was just an exhibition match. Of course, there’s a difference compared to playing for a club, but it’s not that big, since we all know each other. We just made sure everyone had fun, felt comfortable, and enjoyed the process. I think the current stage of the Major playoffs is one of the best ever. The run-up to the Grand Final has been simply amazing—we couldn’t have even dreamed of anything better. I can’t wait for this match—it’ll be a best-of-5 series, so it’s sure to be a spectacular show. I think FURIA will win.

innocent: I really enjoyed playing here today; I’ve never felt anything like this before. Of course, the German national team turned out to be stronger, but I think we all enjoyed the process and had fun, and that’s what matters most. Walking onto the stage was incredible—and this was just an exhibition match! I can’t even imagine how the players feel before official matches. Wearing your country’s jersey is always very exciting. I hope that in the future we’ll have a strong Polish roster at an official national team championship. I don’t think I’m destined to be part of it, because there are many very talented and younger esports players in Poland. Representing my homeland today was especially important to me, and I hope it will be just as important for them in the future.